Ultra-miniaturized thz communication device and system

Abstract

Ultra-miniaturized THz spectrometer / multi-channel receiver devices are provided. THz communication devices employ a THz transmitter, a THz receiver and a modulator, wherein the THz transmitter is configured to introduce a THz signal to the modulator and the THz receiver is configured to receive the THz signal from the modulator and demodulate the signal. Communication systems and methods employing the THz spectrometer / multi-channel receiver devices enable secure communications. Portable THz emitter devices are provided employing semiconductor lasers and a nonlinear birefringent waveguide monolithically integrated on the same substrate.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 61 / 046,126, filed Apr. 18, 2008, 61 / 046,132, filed Apr. 18, 2008 and 61 / 051,887, filed May 9, 2008, the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference.GOVERNMENT RIGHTS[0002]The research leading to the present invention was supported, in part by the Department of Defense's Technical Service Work Group (TSWG) through a contract (N41756-04-C-4163) and by the U.S. Army through a contract (DAAE3003D1015-18). Accordingly, the United States Government may have certain rights in the invention.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]This invention relates to terahertz (THz) communication devices and systems and methods of using same.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0004]There has been a rapid expansion in the area of terahertz technology, apparatus and components using THz technology. Commensurate with this expansion is the need for smaller, faster, less expensive and more r...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides ultra-miniaturized THz spectrometer / multi-channel receiver devices that can be used for hand-held, portable sensing, monitoring, and detection applications. These devices can be integrated into wireless communication systems or used as standalone or hand-held communication elements. The receiver is based on photonic crystal structures, which allow for the fabrication of compact, efficient, and low-cost photonic devices. The dimensions of the present devices are comparable to only a few THz wavelengths. The use of THz radiation as a method for data communication through air is eye-safe and presents no radiation hazards. The present designs do not require any external light sources, which makes them different from conventional THz emitters. The present designs can use thermoelectric cooling and do not require cryogenic temperatures like most conventional Quantum Cascade Lasers.

Problems solved by technology

Communications between vehicles must be stealthy so that hostile forces can not identify the presence nor mission objectives via eavesdropping on communication channels.

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